“They Need Us”: Father's Day March Emphasizes Importance of Being There for Children

Rain or shine, many people are still getting outside to celebrate Father's Day.

Organizers of the first-ever Father's Day Walk in Boston's Dorchester and Roxbury neighborhoods showed up in the rain, but more importantly, they showed up for the kids. That's what they want men to do - not just on this day, but every day.

"They need us," emphasized one speaker.

"[In light] of what's been happening, especially in our city, with all of the youth violence and the youths being affected by that violence, it's important to show the men in the community, of all colors, are here to help lead the future," said Boston Police Superintendent in Chief William Gross.

Necn's own LaToyia Edwards helped get the walkers ready as emcee.

"We love you fathers, thank you for all you do," she said.

Taya Hopkins told the dozens of people who walked how much her father means to her.

"He has taught me so many life lessons that I will never forget," said Hopkins. "So I'm really grateful to have him in my life."

She realizes not everyone has a male role model in their life.

"They don't have this figure in their life to always say, 'Come on, you can do better, you can get your grades up, you need to stay in school,'" she explained.

Teens want men to know that even if you're not a father, stepping up as a role model can save lives.

"I see my friends who also don't have fathers in their lives, and they'll stray along the wrong path because they have no guidance. They don't have the opportunity to see another viewpoint, so they're just working with what they have," said Evan Gilmer of the Center for Teen Empowerment.

This group wants young people to know that they're here and they're ready to help.

The organizers also thanked single mothers for their support. They hope that next year's event will be bigger.

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